Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

The IDS Program at Hodges University can be defined as a field of study that crosses traditional boundaries and draws upon two or more disciplines which leads to an integration of single disciplinary insights. The core courses of the IDS program at Hodges focus on concepts that cross several disciplines and these concepts can also be translated into skills desired in the workplace. These concepts include critical thinking, effective communication, social responsibility, ethical responsibility, an understanding of diversity in a global environment, the ability to know how to research issues in an academic setting or a work setting, and the ability to understand strategic planning and leadership styles. These concepts are critical to understanding complex contemporary problems.

On Campus and Online
The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies degree is offered on campus or entirely online as part of our online learning experience.

Interdisciplinary Studies Career Fields:

Management

Education

Human Resources

Medical Fields

Social Services

Gerontology

Law

Why Interdisciplinary Studies?

Is Interdisciplinary Studies Right For Me?

A degree in Interdisciplinary Studies can be the entry-level degree for a wide range of occupations since it is not focused on any particular career field. There are many jobs that require a bachelor's degree, but not in a specific discipline. An Interdisciplinary Studies degree can be used to pursue a variety of career goals such as managerial careers, government and social work positions, and technology careers.

Interdisciplinary Studies is also a good choice for students who are not sure of their career goals. Students can begin their collegiate experience with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, then continue to obtain a career-specific graduate degree or professional certifications.

Hodges University’s Interdisciplinary Studies program supports the University’s philosophy of being an open, creative, and community conscious institution of higher learning. Interdisciplinary Studies graduates are prepared to adapt to change, fulfill social responsibilities, understand the global perspective, adhere to standards of excellence and appreciate life-long learning.

Careers

What Can I Do With a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies?

The degree in interdisciplinary studies allows success in careers in a many diversified occupations. Depending on personal interest this degree program will be a good foundation for a career in education, many business areas, civil service and also prerequisite to law school.

Education

The certification process for teaching is organized in four categories: A graduate of Interdisciplinary Studies would be considered a college graduate from a non-education program. Once you have made the decision to teach, you will need to decide the subject in which would like to teach and begin the process by applying for a Florida Temporary Certificate in that subject. Florida Law requires that teachers demonstrate mastery of basic skills, professional knowledge, and content area of specialization. Job seekers must complete the Florida Certification Examination and other requirements of the Florida Department of Education. Entry-level positions in this field include positions of Substitute Teacher and Teacher Assistant. For more information, visit the Florida Department of Education website http://www.fldoe.org or your local school district website.

Professional

Some administrative assistants and entry-level clerks are college graduates with degrees in business, finance, or liberal arts. Although a degree is rarely ever required, many graduates accept entry-level clerical positions to get into a particular company or enter in a particular field. Some companies, such as brokerage and financial firms, have a set plan of advancement that tracks college graduates from entry-level clerical positions into managerial positions.

Human Resources

Employers look for graduates with a technical or business background or a well-rounded liberal arts education. Because an interdisciplinary background is appropriate in this field, a combination of courses in the social sciences, business, and behavior sciences is useful.

Social/Human Services

Employers increasingly seek individuals with relevant work experience or education beyond high school in this field. In general, advancement requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in human services, counseling, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field. General education courses in liberal arts, sciences, and humanities are a part of the expected curriculum for a person entering this profession. A master’s degree is typically required to be licensed or certified as a counselor. Prerequisites must be completed for entrance into a social/human services master’s degree program.

Civil Service

Civil service encompasses employment in federal, state, and local governmental agencies. Each of these governmental units is independent and engages in different hiring practices. The education level and experience needed by workers in a state and local government varies by occupation. Civil service occupations requiring a college degree include management, business, and financial jobs; professional and related occupations; service occupations, as well as office and administrative jobs.

Law School

Formal education requirements for a lawyer include a 4-year degree, 3 years in law school, and the passing of a written bar exam. Competition for admission to most law schools is very intense. To qualify for the bar exam in most states, an applicant must earn a college degree and graduate from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or the proper state authorities. Law schools do not recommend any specific major prior to enrollment, however prospective lawyers should develop proficiency in written and oral communication, reading, research, analyzing and critical thinking to succeed in law school and in the profession. Regardless of the selected major, a multidisciplinary background is recommended.

Curriculum

What Will I Learn?

The courses offered in the IDS program are grouped in such a fashion that the professors are able to apply their knowledge and professional experience to make the interconnections so that the focus is not on the separate disciplines but on the integration of the concepts and how they are used to solve complex real world problems.

You may enter the Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies program during any semester. A full time student, 12 semester hour credits per term or typically 3 courses per term, can complete this program in approximately 3 years.

Hover over the course names below to view course descriptions.

Area I.

Interdisciplinary Studies Component

Semester Hour Credit

IDS4110

Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility

IDS4110 - Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility - 4 Credits

A course of study in professional ethics and behavioral expectations in contemporary society. The course reviews the historical and philosophical bases of ethics, incorporating modern day changes in mores and laws that affect professional behavior in the private and public sectors. Organizational and individual ethics and social responsibility are examined.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4150

Social and Political Processes

IDS4150 - Social and Political Processes- 4 Credits

This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the legal and political structures within society. Special attention will be focused on how government conducts business and how decisions are made.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4130

Leadership Theories and Practice

IDS4130 - Leadership Theories and Practice - 4 Credits

This course examines the traditional theories of leadership and the new paradigm as described by stewardship and servant leadership theories. Particular attention is placed on analyzing formal leadership and corporate governance. The course also explores personal leadership and followership behaviors.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4120

Issues in Diversity

IDS4120 - Issues in Diversity - 4 Credits

Issues in Diversity examines both overt and more subtle forms of human stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination. Special attention is paid to how these perceptions and behaviors currently play out in popular culture as well as in the global workplace. The course endeavors to lay the groundwork for development of skills for use of diversity management in the workplace. Finally, the student is encouraged to look beyond the stereotypes of particular groups in order to more accurately evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of people on an individual basis.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4160

Contemporary Global Issues

IDS4160 - Contemporary Global Issues - 4 Credits

This course engages students in global thinking concerning such topics as worldwide hunger and healthcare, population trends, distribution of wealth and resources, intercultural and international disputes and warfare, and other current worldwide issues. Students will research topics utilizing US and non-US media.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4140

Social Processes

IDS4140 - Social Processes - 4 Credits

A multi-disciplinary survey of the political, economic, legal, familial, religious, educational, and cultural institutions. Particular attention is placed on how these institutions influence our thinking and decision-making.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4190

Applied Research Methodologies

IDS4190 - Applied Research Methodologies - 4 Credits

This course introduces students to the research process through an applied research project. The student learns how to refine a research question and conduct comprehensive library research. Particular focus is on the evaluation, incorporation, and documentation of relevant data.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4180

Professional Communication Concepts

IDS4180 - Professional Communication Concepts - 4 Credits

A course of study incorporating and integrating paradigms of written and oral communications. Emphasis is placed on the ability of the learner to competently communicate in social and professional contexts. Students learn how to produce effective business documents and presentations.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4170

Strategic Planning and Evaluation

IDS4170 - Strategic Planning and Evaluation - 4 Credits

A study of how organizations identify their strategic intent, plan and implement structure, and monitor outcomes. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding mission statements, vision statements, organizational goals and objectives, values and culture, and tools used to measure outcomes.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101

4

IDS4999

Interdisciplinary Studies Exit Assessment Exam

IDS4999 - Interdisciplinary Studies Exit Assessment Exam - 0 Credits

This is a comprehensive exam covering topics studied in Interdisciplinary Studies and must be taken after completing all wheels.

0

Total Interdisciplinary Studies Component

36

Area II.

Liberal Arts Component

Required within the minimum of 40 credit hours of liberal arts/general education are at least 3 credits in each of the following: English, Mathematics, Humanities, Social or Behavioral Sciences to include POS2050 American National Government, Computer Applications, and IDS1002.

Total Liberal Arts Component

40

Area III.

Approved Elective Component

Credit for courses taken under the Approved Elective Component may be granted through either advanced standing credit (transfer credits) or classes taken at Hodges University as approved in consultation with the Faculty/Program Advisor, Program Chair, and Dean.

Total Approved Elective Component

44

Total Semester Hours for Graduation Requirement

120

Benefits

How is Hodges Interdisciplinary Studies Program Different?

Program Philosophy

The philosophy of the Interdisciplinary Studies Program (IDS) is to provide students with a broad interdisciplinary approach to knowledge. By researching and integrating various concepts, students are taught how to think expansively and learn how to apply that knowledge to analyze complex social, business, and global issues. Effective communication and leadership skills are emphasized in the program as it focuses on a holistic approach to education that prepares students to become career professionals in their chosen field.

Our Faculty

Our Interdisciplinary Studies faculty are highly experienced and qualified in a variety of career fields. Their real-world knowledge and experiences are invaluable resources for Hodges students. At Hodges University, we believe students are more than just numbers to fill a class. Our faculty members and staff recognize each student as an individual and are happy to provide the personal attention you need to succeed.

Your Choice

You can obtain your degree on campus or completely online. Choose the method that is more convenient for you!

More Information

Tuition

What Will the Program Cost?

Hodges University tuition continues to be one of the lowest among private institutions in the state of Florida. Basic tuition for all undergraduate credit hour courses is $530.00 per credit hour.

Additional fees may apply. Books and supplies are not included in tuition. For a complete schedule of Tuition and Fees, see the current Catalog or Graduate Bulletin.

How Does Hodges Help?

Hodges University holds several fundraising events every year that benefit institutional scholarship funds. We also directly contribute an average of approximately two million dollars per year in loan offsetting funds to assist students in achieving their educational goals. Remember that tuition may be reduced by scholarships and grants and financial aid is available.

"Hodges University has a great library and faculty. The staff is friendly and ready to help, and the professors go out of their way to help students." - Nisa Staruch, Interdisciplinary Studies class of '13

Net Price Calculator

*Net price is defined as estimated cost of attendance — including tuition and required fees, books and supplies, room and board (meals), and other related expenses — minus estimated grant and scholarship aid to current and prospective students and their families based on what similar students paid in a previous year.

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Need More Information?

You may also contact us to speak to an admissions coordinator who will guide you through the application and admissions process. To speak to an admissions coordinator call us at 1-800-466-8017 (Naples), 1-800-466-0019 (FM), use our contact form, email admit@hodges.edu or schedule a one-on-one visit to tour one of our campuses.

Your Admissions Coordinator will:

Help you complete the application in its entirety.

Help you obtain necessary transcripts.

Schedule your admissions test (if necessary).

Coordinate the Financial Aid process with a Financial Aid Professional.

Refer you to your Academic Advisor for class scheduling.

Give you information regarding your orientation.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Hodges family!

Mary Nuosce

Program Director
: Master in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

As the field of counseling continues to evolve, our commitment ever increases to develop the counseling knowledge and skills of our Clinical Mental Health Counseling students.

Nisa Staruch

Interdisciplinary Studies, Class of 2013

I am gaining a positive attitude. I now believe I can achieve my goals!

- Hodges University Student

Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree consists of three parts, all designed to assist the student to be able to apply for Florida
State Licensing as a Mental Health Counselor.